Jessica Francis' portfolio of articles from summer internship with The Wedding Daily Times.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Randy’s Top Ten Tips Before Saying Yes to the Dress

If you’re like many of our brides (or many women we know) you probably watch a lot of Say Yes to the Dress on TLC…guilty! The television show airs brides and their families on their search for the perfect wedding gown at Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City. (Check out this famous bridal store with an appointment if you’re in the New York area!) Anyone who has ever watched this show once knows and loves Randy, one of the fashion experts who helps brides in their gown consultations. Randy is always the man to call when a bride finds herself in a bind! He’s hilarious and sweet, always adorable, and has a true and honest eye for fashion. So we’ve included for you Randy’s top ten things to keep in mind before buying a dress.

1. Know your budget. You should know your financial limits before you come into the salon. Inflating your budget and putting everyone on the spot will just leave you empty-handed.

2. It’s OK to love the first dress. Randy sees this happen all the time. He tells brides that if they trust themselves, everyone else will fall in love with that first dress, too.

3. Know your silhouette. Trying on the wrong silhouette can cause any bride to be discouraged. A dress in a magazine looks different on a model, so go with what is figure-flattering on you.

4. Be open to alterations. It’s important to remember that dresses can be altered. Try to envision the dress on your wedding day when it’s fitted to your body and style.

5. Be open to different styles. Keep your options and your mind open, and you may just surprise yourself!

6. Keep location in mind. A ball gown is way too heavy for the beach. You can find a dress that will fit the sand and surf but will still look and feel bridal.

7. Say yes, and stop shopping. Some brides need to confirm that they’ve made the right choice, but if that choice is second-guessed by her entourage, a bride’s confidence can get shaken.

8. Trust your instincts. It can be hard when your friends don’t approve of the dress you love, but when a bride knows what she wants, she has to trust herself.

9. Leave room in the budget for extras. Bling isn’t cheap! Anytime you add accessories, customize your look or need alterations, the cost goes way up. So, leave some room in the budget for the finishing touches.

10. Share your vision. It’s important to speak with your friends before you come to the salon so they understand what you’re looking for. If they aren’t on the same page, they can send you down the wrong path.